Whilst the tactic failed to make an impact during their home draws against Norwich and West Brom, it worked in an impressive display against Lazio last Thursday, and on this basis AVB will remain with his favoured tactic of using two holding midfielders behind one striker – at the moment, Jermain Defoe.

A change in tactic to 4-4-2 at half-time proved fundamental against QPR as they went on to dominate the second half. However, Villas-Boas feels this was mainly down to the team upping their pressure, and not the fact there were two strikers on the field.

James Hartnett

A recent journalism graduate, James is a firm believer in providing unique perspectives on sports news. An experienced sports blogger, freelancer and sub-editor, he specialises in football news and in-depth analysis. A lifelong Spurs fan, he can’t wait for their potential to be unlocked next season.